The graduating students of modern dance at the Hungarian Dance University (HDU) with the support of the Pannonia Scholarship Programme, had the opportunity to participate in a six-month foreign internship. Bence Kiricza and Árnika Krasznai spent two and a half months at the Performact school in Portugal.
How was the internship?
It was great because we were placed in a serious training institution, Performact (Performact Curso de Interprete de Dança Contemporanea). I must admit, the days we spent there filled us with many experiences, thanks to the group’s energy and work ethic. We didn’t expect to build such strong connections and find friends in just two months. We know they are eagerly waiting for us to return in October.
How was your time in Portugal different from your time at HDU?
As I mentioned, the work ethic there was much more intense and cohesive. Everyone focuses on themselves, and you can see the progress day by day. The teachers and masters changed every few weeks, sometimes in a course format, other times in a more creation-based approach. We are grateful that had the opportunity to see many different methods.
What were your impressions regarding how prepared you are for the “life of a dancer”?
I would approach this question from a different angle. I believe that before joining a company, it is essential to take a look around the world after university training – essentially, the learning process must continue. I think that each new environment, perspective, and method can offer a lot, both in terms of career development and self-knowledge.
Photos by Performact Curso de Interprete de Dança Contemporanea
Who worked with you during your internship?
I will list them, hoping I don’t miss out anyone: Goncalo Lobato, ballet master; Tijen Lawton, who taught contemporary dance and improvisation; Wallace Wong, also a contemporary dance teacher; Contramestre Lagoa, capoeira; Samir Calixto, who contributed a lot to floorwork, modern dance and creation. We also worked with Celine Werkhoven, Eduardo Torroja, Carla Pereira, Juliana Fernandes, Janyce Michellod, Beno Novak, Isael Cruz Mata, and Eddy Becquart, who focused on composition and philosophical approaches, as well as Clémence Peytoureau, who worked on lighting techniques.
What an opportunity was it to have been in such an environment and worked with such masters and professionals?
We are grateful that this program was able to take place, and we had the chance to experience so many amazing moments.
